The F-Type will focus on rewarding driving, Jaguar said. A range of engines will be offered, including a new powerplant family. Like the larger and similar-looking XK, the F-Type will use all-aluminum construction.

Jaguar also said that it has started final on-road testing of the car near its Castle Bromwich plant in England, where the car will be built.

“A true sports car needs to be pure in both its purpose and its form. To have the opportunity to produce such a car for Jaguar has been a privilege both for myself and for my team,” said Ian Callum, design director for Jaguar.

The car could be considered a spiritual successor to the convertible Jaguar E-type, which was produced between 1961 and 1975. The E-type is considered by many to be one of most beautiful cars ever produced.

The F-Type will arrive in 2013 and will use a two-seat configuration with a convertible top. Engine specs were not revealed, but the car is said to sprint to 60 mph in less than five seconds en route to a top speed of more than 180 mph.

“We've been away from the segment, and now were back in style,” said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar brand director.